Case Study: Metallurgical Microscope Bristol University

New metallurgical compound microscope delivered and installed to University of Bristol. Best Scientific recently completed the build and of a compound upright microscope, specifically configured for our client’s Metallurgy application, as requested by the School of Electrical, Electronic and Mechanical Engineering

Configuration brief:

The university needed a high magnification optical solution, for inspection of metals such as Copper, conductive steel, and aluminium alloys. Resolution in order of a few microns was necessary to view the details of interest. Digital imaging was essential to document condition of said metals both before and after an acid etching process, for direct comparison. The deadline on the lead time was also a factor as this equipment was needed to assist a project already started.

Bristol Universities School of electronic and mechanical engineering prime focus is innovation to develop knowledge by capitalising on the links across mechanical, electrical, and electronic engineering. It was our aim to assist in this goal by providing a fit for purpose, added value, microscopy vision system.

Solution Package:

After reviewing all the information provided by Bristol, and evaluating against our product portfolio, I concluded that that the Euromex B-Scope compound microscope model BS.1053-PLMi should form the basis of the configuration. In addition, a relevant 100x Dry objective as requested by the client, and a HDMI / USB digital flexible C-Mount camera with built in monitor, to allow a live imaging and documentation process.

Standard Features:

• HWF 10x/22 mm eyepieces – Diopter adjustment on left.
• Trinocular head, Siedentopf type 30° inclination. Interpupillary adjustment 48-76mm.
• Reversed quadruple revolving nosepiece on ball-bearings.
• Plan PLMi 5x,10x, 20x, S50x 100x infinity corrected IOS objectives.
• Coaxial coarse and fine focus with friction adjustment.
• 185 x 140 mm stage with glass insert and 74 x 48 mm travel.
• Height adjustable Abbe condenser N.A. 1.25 with iris diaphragm and filter holder.
• Reflected Illumination, intensity adjustable 3 W Neo LED™ Köhler illumination with external power supply, rotatable polarizer and analyser, built-in condenser with iris diaphragm and field iris diaphragm.
• Transmitted 3 W Neo LED™ Köhler illumination.

Special Features:

• All optics anti-fungal treated.
• All objective lenses have anti-reflection coating for maximum throughput.
• Rack stop protection – Stops sample being pushed into the objectives and breaking.
• APL: Antimicrobial protection layer. Microscopes body is treated with Antibacterial paint helping prevent spread of infections between users.
• Cordless Use: On board rechargeable batteries for mobile transmitted illumination.
• CSS: Cable storage system, power cable stores neatly behind back of microscope.
• Anti-theft System: Kensington security slot included to secure device.
• 10 Year Warranty on mechanical parts 2 Year warranty on electronic parts.

Parts Selection and rationale:

The key function of this microscope was visualisation of opaque metal; therefore an Incident Light port and LED illuminator were essential. This was included with the Upright B-Scope model. Combined with the PLMi objective lenses (Infinity Plan Achromat objectives, with no cover glass compensation) to facilitate direct high-resolution imaging of the sample. 

The HDMI / USB camera provides flexibility for the user as they can connect in two ways.

1. Firstly, Direct, no computer required. The microscope camera plugs straight into the pre mounted HDMI monitor, with the camera controlled via wireless mouse and on-screen popup menus. Images are saved to on board SD card included. The monitor also provides a teaching aid for training and discussion on live sample viewing.
2. Secondly operate the camera via USB port to connect to a PC / Laptop and collect and store images using included free imaging software.  

Results:

Best scientific were pleased to be able to build the full package for Bristol University to ensure all aspects of the system were appropriate and optimised selections. I performed a full prebuild and quality control inspection of all the parts once imported from the manufacturer. I also personally delivered and installed the system with a short handover, to explain some good operation practises. Remote after sales support is also on hand from Best Scientific should it be needed, providing piece of mind for the client.

If your institution has similar requirements for microscopes that would benefit from being configured to your application, please do Contact us with your design brief. Best Scientific will endeavour to understand your individual requirements, before recommending and building a suitable product. In turn providing a no obligation quotation for your consideration.